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What are the different work permits and residence visas
Portugal is a popular country for foreign nationals to work and live in, due to its warm climate and strong business structure. According to a recent survey, there are just over 781,000 of the Portuguese population that are foreign-born, which amounts to approximately 12% of the entire population. However, since the Brexit deal, which came into effect on the 1st of January 2021, immigration laws have changed for British nationals aiming to start a business in Portugal; including the type of Portuguese work visa and residence permit you will require.
This guide will explore the various work permits and visas foreign nationals require for employment in Portugal, and the benefits of working with international lawyers.
Click on the links below to jump to that section:
Find out who is a suitable candidate for a Portuguese work visa and residence permit.
The different work permits available in Portugal, and when they are appropriate.
Which work visa you will need as a foreign national in Portugal?
Discover what a residence visa is, and when foreign nationals can apply for Portuguese citizenship.
The process of applying for a work visa in Portugal, and how international lawyers can help.
The most common questions surrounding immigration and work permits in Portugal.
Who requires a work visa or work permit for Portugal?
Foreign nationals should know what is expected of them and the documentation required to set up a Portuguese business to access the many benefits to starting a business in Portugal.
Citizens from countries in the European Union do not require any Portuguese work visa or permit. However, if they intend to stay in Portugal for longer than three months, they will need a Residence certificate (Certificado de Registo) from their nearest city hall (câmara municipal).
Alternatively, a non-EU national will require a work permit before taking employment in Portugal. Commonly, a Portuguese work permit will be issued alongside a job offer, or if the non-EU citizen is married to a Portuguese national, a permit can be issued. Foreign nationals will also require a residence permit or visa to form a company in Portugal.
Find out more about becoming a Portuguese citizen here.
Which work permits are available for foreign nationals in Portugal?
After finding employment in Portugal, your new employer should apply for a Portuguese work permit (Autorização de Trabalho) if your contract is longer than three months. This is processed through the Labour Authorities in Portugal.
If you intend to stay and work in Portugal following your initial three months employment, you must apply for a Portuguese work visa and a residence permit.
When setting up a business in Portugal, non-EU citizens will not require a work permit, as this is for employees only. Instead, they must obtain specific work visas and other documentation showcasing their business plan whilst in Portugal.
Giambrone & Partners can help British national business owners form a Portuguese company. Our immigration lawyers will also be able to ensure you have the right permit and residence visa required to live and work in Portugal.
Find out more about how to set up a business in Portugal here.
The different Portuguese work visas for non-EU citizens
Foreign nationals seeking a company in Portugal must apply for a visa. Typically, for foreign nationals, this is the D2 visa (or the visa for immigrant entrepreneurs), which must be submitted alongside a detailed business plan and proof that the idea is financially viable and connected to Portugal’s economy.
There is also a StartUp Visa, ideal for recent entrepreneurs who require help in the company formation process and need time to adapt to the Portuguese market.
Other work visas include the Seasonal work visa for specific sectors such as agriculture, retail and construction, and the Temporary Portuguese work visa, where applicants are allowed in the country for one year.
Discover the different types of visas for working and living in Portugal here.
If you are unsure of the type of work visa you require, you should seek expert legal advice. Our Portuguese Advogados (lawyers) are English-speaking and will be able to guide you through the company formation process. This includes help with the relevant visas needed to set up a business in Portugal.
Contact Giambrone & Partners today for more information.
Portuguese residence permits and citizenship
Non-EU citizens intending to form a company in Portugal must also apply for a residence visa if they plan to stay in the country on a long-term basis. A Portuguese residence permit is temporary and initially valid for a year. These are renewable for up to five years, and should be submitted when verifying your Portuguese company.
After five years of continuous living in Portugal, non-Portuguese nationals can apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
Giambrone & Partners’ highly experienced immigration lawyers will advise and guide you through gaining Portuguese citizenship.
Contact Giambrone & Partners today to speak to one of our citizenship lawyers.
How do you apply for a Portuguese work visa?
To apply for a work visa for Portuguese employment, foreign nationals must go to the embassy in their home country. The following documents are required for visa application:
- Work visa application and the fee paid
- Passport (and photo)
- Copies of previous visas
- Flight reservation details
- Travel and medical insurance up to €30,000
- Proof of accommodation
- Employment contract
Foreign nationals looking to start their own company in Portugal do not require a work permit. Instead, they will need to apply for a Portuguese residency permit from the Portugal Immigration Service (SEF) which costs €90, and a D2 work visa. Once these documents have been acquired, non-Portuguese nationals will need to present their identity card and a tax code to the Empresa Na Hora to register the company.
You should seek legal advice when setting up a business in Portugal. Our international lawyers (or Advogados) will guide you through every step of the company formation process, and will help you understand what visas or permits are required.
If you require help setting up a business in Portugal or are looking for advice, contact Giambrone & Partners today or email us at clientservice@giambronelaw.com.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Portugal Golden Visa Programme?
Also known as the residence permit for investment activity (ARI), the Portugal Golden Visa Programme is a residency-by-investment scheme created for non-EU nationals. Although the Golden Visa concluded in March 2023, it has since been announced that the Portuguese government are instead restructuring the programme in relation to the residential property investment; the business creation aspect and other forms of investment still remain.
The benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa include access to various nations in the EU, affordable investment options, and a temporary residence permit for a year.
Discover more about the different visas available for foreign nationals in Portugal here.
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